Hike Between the Adirondack Seasons

LAKE PLACID, N.Y., Oct. 23, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Crisp temperatures, no crowds, and clear views: the "in-between" time shouldered by fall and winter marks a period of transition in Lake Placid. After nature's autumnal spectacle comes to an end and the first snows begin to dust the mountaintops, it's also an ideal time to get outside and hike the Adirondack Park's 2,000 miles of marked trails – the largest trail system in the nation.

A diamond in the rough, fall and early winter on Adirondack hiking trails is no less miraculous than reaching a summit on a summer's day, though you might want to dress a bit warmer. Explore the Adirondack Forever Wild, transition with the seasons, and see Lake Placid anew on trails strewn with the blazing remnants of fall, fewer crowds, and bare trees with no leaves to obscure your view.

Heart Lake – One-mile loop, 45 minutes to an hour. Enjoy flat terrain and rolling hills on this popular trail leading around striking Heart Lake, a family-friendly location for exploration and a leisurely hike or snowshoe past lean-tos, plank bridges, and an old ski slope.

Copperas, Owen, and Winch Ponds – 3.5 miles, 3 to 3.5 hours. A moderate hike, this mostly wooded trek leads to glacial ponds and a quaint Adirondack lean-to where you can enjoy a warm thermos of apple cider or hot chocolate while reflecting on nature's beauty.

Wright and Algonquin – 4.7 Miles, 7.5 to 8 hours. Numbers 16 and two of the High Peaks combine for a challenging trek. Before the snow blankets the ground, hike up Wright to see the remains of a B-47 Bomber that crashed there in 1962 before tackling Algonquin.

From October on, the hiking landscape transforms in a way that calls for increased attention to detail. On any fall or winter hiking outing, ready yourself for rapid changes in Adirondack weather – pack smart, be prepared, and do trail research in advance. Snowshoes or skis are additionally required in the High Peaks when snowfall reaches eight or more inches.

Hit the trail in Lake Placid – where hiking opportunities offer continuously breathtaking and transforming perspectives of the Adirondack wild. Get the fall and winter vantage point from above and start planning your next hiking getaway – browse the many Lake Placid lodging options and make a reservation to visit today.

About Lake Placid, NYLake Placid is a four-season destination, offering diverse experiences, outdoor adventures, unique events and an ever-changing backdrop to complement your favorite activities. Enjoy the natural beauty, and embrace the timeless atmosphere in the heart of the Adirondacks.